Health Agency Urges Public to Be Alert for Extreme Hot Weather

Jakarta Provincial Government through Health Agency has urged the public to be aware of the impacts of the high temperatures in the next few days. Temperatures in Jakarta even reached 35.6 degrees Celsius.

urges the public to maintain their physical condition

Based on information from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), this condition is expected to persist until Eid al-Fitr 2026.

Prioritize Residents' Safety, Jakarta on Alert for Extreme Heat

Head of Jakarta Health Agency, Ani Ruspitawati said there are a number of health issues to be aware of during this period of extreme hot weather.

These include heat stroke, a medical emergency characterized by high body temperature, hot and dry skin, and confusion. Furthermore, heat exhaustion, with symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and excessive sweating, also needs to be anticipated.

Severe dehydration due to a drastic reduction in body fluids can trigger acute kidney failure. Furthermore, extreme heat can also stress the heart, worsening cardiovascular disease and diabetes, as well as causing skin irritations such as heat rash and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

"The agency urges the public to maintain their physical condition during hot weather to prevent health problems," she said, Thursday (3/19).

The agency also informs that high temperatures can have a direct impact on public health, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

Regarding consumption patterns during hot weather, the agency is urging the public to pay attention to fluid intake, especially during the fasting month. She assessed water remains the preferred choice because it is quickly absorbed by the body and is safe to consume.

In addition, oral rehydration solutions or ORS can be used to replace lost electrolytes, especially in moderate to severe dehydration.

Other alternatives include coconut water, which contains natural and refreshing electrolytes, and isotonic drinks, which contain electrolytes and a little sugar to help restore energy after strenuous activity.

"Fruit juice without added sugar can also be an option because it contains water and vitamins which help with light hydration," she stated.